Pamlico River, NC (August 25, 2025) – A tragic boating accident on the Pamlico River claimed the life of a 13-year-old boy and left a 14-year-old with injuries. The collision occurred around 4:30 PM near the Mimosa Shores area in Beaufort County.
According to reports, a 25-foot SeaCraft operated by a 69-year-old man from Washington collided with a jet ski carrying the two juveniles. After the crash, the boat’s operator immediately called 911, and a large multi-agency response followed. Emergency crews from the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, Washington Fire & EMS, Bunyan Volunteer Fire Department, Broad Creek EMS, Beaufort County EMS, and Beaufort County Emergency Management all responded to the scene.
Officials confirmed that drugs or alcohol were not contributing factors in the accident. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family of the young victim, and we wish the injured teen a full and swift recovery.
Boating Accidents in North Carolina Waters
Recreational watercraft collisions, especially involving jet skis and larger vessels, can lead to devastating consequences. In areas like the Pamlico River, where boating is common, these incidents underscore the importance of situational awareness, vessel speed control, and boater education.
According to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, there were over 150 reportable boating accidents statewide in 2024. Many involved young passengers and personal watercraft such as jet skis, which are particularly vulnerable in collisions with larger boats.
Safety measures like proper supervision, wearing life vests, and observing right-of-way rules are critical to reducing such tragedies. In the event of an accident, swift reporting, as in this case, allows for rapid emergency response, but even the fastest interventions cannot always prevent fatal outcomes.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a boating accident, contact Local Accident Reports for support and guidance.
